NEWPORT County AFC manager Michael Flynn is hoping loan star Antoine Semenyo can climb off his sickbed to help the Exiles start 2019 with a bang at Stevenage.

County head to Broadhall Way on New Year's Day looking for a first League Two win in five weeks after missing several chances to beat struggling Crawley Town at Rodney Parade yesterday.

It was a frustrating 0-0 draw for Flynn and his team, who were without Semenyo after the 18-year-old striker was ruled out with a chest infection.

County also lost Andrew Crofts and Matty Dolan to fresh injuries, but there is good news on fellow midfielder Joss Labadie.

“I’ve had to make subs again because of injuries and we’ve had Antoine missing because of illness,” explained Flynn.

“It’s been one of those months. The last four to six weeks have been that kind of period. It’s no excuse but it’s caught up with us.

“The two subs were forced and Tyler [Forbes] was tired at the end, although I thought he did very well.

“Matty and Crofty were struggling. I’m more optimistic about Matty being OK, as it was a kick, than I am for Crofty.

“It’s so frustrating for him,” added the manager. “There’s not an ounce of fat on him – he’s got and eight-pack. He looks after himself, he doesn’t drink, he eats the right food. But, unfortunately, he just can’t get going at the moment.

“Believe me, he’s devastated because he’s put a lot of pride into playing for Newport and he wants to show the fans what he can do.”

Asked if Semenyo has a chance of playing on Tuesday, Flynn said: “I hope so, I might have to drag him out of bed!

“He’s got a chest infection and he’s dosed up with antibiotics. Fingers crossed he’ll be alright.”

Labadie will not feature at Stevenage but his injury is not as bad as first feared.

The 28-year-old, who has just returned after anterior cruciate ligament surgery, hobbled off holding his knee in the Boxing Day defeat to Forest Green Rovers.

“We’ve had the scan and there’s nothing structurally wrong [with his knee], which is great news,” said Flynn.

“It’s just a bit of swelling from the original challenge. Hopefully he’ll be back sooner rather than later.”

On the Stevenage test, Flynn said: It will be another tough one. They will be ready for us and looking to beat us."